Fator wowed the judges and audiences alike with his ability to impersonate stars ranging from Garth Brooks to Etta James—all without moving his lips.

"Thank you, America, thank you so much, America!" the newly coroneted best new act said after learning of his triumph.

He performed a final rendition of Roy Orbison's "Crying," assisted by his plush turtle puppet as confetti rained down upon him.

In addition to the prize money, Fator was informed that his lifelong dream of playing Las Vegas was coming true, as the show has secured him a headlining slot next month at Bally's Resort.

Irwin was the first finalist knocked out of the competition. After host Jerry Springer announced her fate, the 14-year-old Maryland native kept a smile on her face.

"I'm not upset about this at all," she said. "I have been in such good company and this journey has far exceeded my expectations. It's just been so much fun."

Next to go was Butterscotch, who grew tearful as she watched her goodbye montage.

"I promise you--save a tape. Ten years from now, you will continue to be a huge star in America," Springer assured the disappointed contestant. "You have talent, you really, really have talent."

Finally just Haley and Fator remained—and only one could be the winner.

When the final results were announced, Haley managed to look genuinely pleased for Fator, clapping his hands and embracing his competitor.

"Cas, you have been such a champ. We've all fallen in love with you, "Springer told the runner-up. "You are a phenomenal talent."

The live two-hour season finale also featured each contestant performing alongside a celebrity guest star. Fator dueted with Kermit the Frog, Haley with UB40, Butterscotch with Sean Kingston and Irwin with Taylor Swift.

Other filler included David Hasselhoff performing his over-long song, "This Is the Moment," as well as the return of the top 10 finalists, showing off their skills for a final time.

Though there was some doubt about whether judge Piers Morgan would make the show after he cracked a few ribs in a weekend fall from a Segway, he took his seat alongside Hasselhoff and Sharon Osbourne, though he kept his movements to a minimum.

Some 10.8 million viewers tuned in for last week's final performance episode, making America's Got Talent the most-watched show of the week.